Apr 29/30 – Blog #20
Don Heider delivers a very concise, yet informational pitch as to why society should be prioritizing a rejuvenation of the economy. In it, he lays out several different approaches in an effort to make a compromise for the situation. From the perception of the general welfare of society and for the sake of any economic interest at all, it is paramount that we think utilitarian. The approach for a Bentham-minded society would make people think about all factors of the crisis, not just the ones motivated by fear. People have been blind to a large part of life, unable to see things that don’t concern them(or at least they think so).
The rate at which life in society has literally morphed into something different is unprecedented, shocking. Three months ago, kids were eating lunch in cafeterias, NBA games were on TNT every Thursday, and people were going to concerts. We have been so shocked from such a dramatic change in our lifestyles that we have lost sight of intangibles. The economy collapsing for starters. We should be worried about how the increase in government spending is going to cripple us long-term or where all the people getting laid off right now will be in 6 months. These are very difficult and prerogative questions to answer, but the hypothetical must be considered.
Although, through a brief analysis of all of the different approaches, it seems that none of them are the objective right answer. Considering all the factors, and taking into account every single person’s opinion on it would still come short of accurately answering the question: What is the one right thing to do? It’s a terrific question but there is no hope of attempting to solve it without the cooperation of the general commonwealth. Everyone has to offer some sort of input and help to find a compromise with the 7 billion people on this planet.
In response to the second article I read pertaining this pandemic, I have to say that I have become very impressed with people’s show of blind ignorance in a time like this. It’s just like Appiah said, “Driving with your eyes closed down a highway at night for 10 seconds, you’re pretty unlikely to hit anyone, especially if other drivers are properly alert. But if everybody did it, lots of people would be maimed or killed.” If everyone took this for what it is and decided to do their part in containing the virus, we’d all be better off.
By this same token, Kant’s harm principle would be equally applicable in this situation. “A person can do whatever they want as long as their actions do not harm others.” In this case, the roommate’s actions are directly affecting her and potentially putting her at risk of catching the virus. It is important to take this into account when trying to decide what is the right choice in this situation.
Sources: Weighing Values in the Midst of a Pandemic & THE ETHICIST: My Roommate’s Boyfriend Still Visits Despite the Outbreak. Can I Object?
https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2020/03/19/coronavirus-effect-economy-life-society-analysis-covid-135579
507 words.
Mind of Lucca 